We are the only organization in Santa Cruz County that offers a year-round calendar of recreational events for all ages and segments of the physically and developmentally challenged populations. Founded in 1994 by Foster Andersen, a quadriplegic survivor of a spinal cord injury, our organization has provided hundreds of life-enriching recreational and social activities for people with special needs. We create opportunities to enjoy arts and social interaction, as well as engage with the natural environment through outdoor recreation.

ELIGIBILITY: Anyone with a disability. Call for information. First come first serve, so sign up early.

FEES: Low-cost, fixed fees.

Mission:

Founded on the belief that recreation, fun, challenge and access to the outdoors are essential parts of a fulfilling life, Shared Adventures is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of people living with disabilities. Our goal is to offer opportunities for social and recreational interaction for disabled people, and thereby encourage:
Personal growth, development and self-confidence,
Cooperation, decision-making and leadership skills,
Outdoor skills and environmental awareness
Improved quality of life and level of happiness

Programs:

Our two largest events of the year are Day on the Beach and Camp Adventures. Our diverse Calendar of Activities includes kayaking, art classes, museum trips, sailing, indoor rock-climbing, garden classes, camping, bowling, archery, table tennis, bocce ball, bingo, and much more.

The U.S. Paralympics, a division of the U.S. Olympic Committee, and Shared Adventures have partnered to create Paralympic Sport - Santa Cruz. Paralympics Sport Clubs are community-based programs developed to involve youth and adults with physical and visual disabilities, including active duty service members and veterans, in ongoing sports and physical activity, regardless of skill level. For more information about our Paralympics activities and the U.S. Paralympics overall, visit the website.
http://www.teamusa.org/US-Paralympics

Shared Adventures also provides a beach wheelchair that is available for rent on a daily or weekly basis. To see rates and terms of the rental, visit our website.

Volunteer Info:

Our volunteer database currently has over 1,500 individuals on it and volunteers help at most of our events, year-round. Join our volunteer mailing list and receive the latest calendars of activities, information about volunteering at our larger events like Day on the Beach, and many other opportunities. http://www.sharedadventures.org/volunteer.html